yahoo
Chris MacFarland's brief tenure as general manager of the Nashville Predators has been characterized by unexpected trades. The latest example occurred on November 1 when he dealt forward Matthew Wood to the Seattle Kraken in exchange for forward Shane Wright, a transaction that had not been speculated about beforehand.
The trade bears some resemblance to MacFarland's earlier move of Luke Evangelista to the New Jersey Devils just before training camp two months ago. In both cases, players considered part of the Predators' future were suddenly sent elsewhere. While Evangelista's departure could be linked to contract negotiations—he signed a five-year deal with the Devils shortly after—the decision to trade Wood is more puzzling.
Wood recorded 30 points as a rookie last season and appeared to be developing into the No. 2 center he was drafted to become in 2023. However, MacFarland evidently identified aspects of Wood's game that raised concerns. Perhaps it was Wood's production of only three points in 14 games this season, or perhaps something else. A clue may lie in a statement from the Predators' press release: "We feel (Wright) will bring a strong two-way game to our team and will add to the pace of our lineup," MacFarland said.
With "pace" serving as a euphemism for speed, the trade was aimed at making the team faster up the middle. Wood is a large forward at 6-foot-4 and 200 pounds, but his skating speed has never been a strength. According to NHL Edge, he ranked below the 50th percentile in maximum skating speed and in 20-22 mph bursts last season. As a power forward prospect, his game relied on patience—gaining the zone, holding off defenders, and seeking passing and shooting lanes.
Wright is slightly smaller at 6-foot and 190 pounds but possesses greater speed. Last season, he ranked 64th in skating speed and 85th in 20-22 mph bursts. When playing at his best, he thrives off the rush with speed and reads plays with urgency. Adding Wright is a move to increase team speed and also signals MacFarland's desire for more urgency on the ice. Patience is important, but if a player can't think the game fast, he can't play it fast.
It's worth noting that Wright experienced development challenges during his five seasons with Seattle. After being selected No. 4 overall in 2022, he bounced between the NHL, AHL, and OHL in his first three seasons. Last year, he managed only 27 points in 74 games, saw his playing time decrease, and rumors surfaced that a "change of scenery" might be beneficial. Wright being traded is not surprising, but Nashville being his destination certainly is.
He is expected to enter the Predators' lineup as a middle-six forward, likely at center, and will have an opportunity to play alongside players like Filip Forsberg, Jonathan Marchessault, and Nils Höglander. His debut could come as early as November 3 when the Carolina Hurricanes visit Bridgestone Arena (7 p.m. CT, The Spot Nashville 28).
Key Analysis
MacFarland's trade for Wright underscores a strategic shift toward speed and urgency, even at the cost of a promising young forward in Wood. The move highlights the GM's willingness to make bold decisions to reshape the roster, and Wright's fresh start in Nashville could unlock his potential if he can adapt quickly to the team's system.
Originally reported by yahoo.